The Volunteer In Police Service (VIPS) Program works to enhance the capacity of state and local law enforcement by utilizing and training volunteers in police work. Citizen volunteers supplement and support officers by allowing them to concentrate on their primary duties. The program’s ultimate goal is to enhance the capacity of state and local law enforcement to utilize volunteers.

Law enforcement volunteer programs are not designed to replace sworn or civilian personnel. Rather, volunteers are used to supplement and enhance existing or envisioned functions to allow law enforcement professionals to do their job in the most effective manner. Volunteers can provide innumerable benefits to a law enforcement agency. They can enhance public safety and services, maximize existing resources, and create valuable ties between law enforcement and members of the community. Investing in a volunteer program can help sworn and civilian employees fulfill their primary functions and provide services that may not otherwise be offered.

What is VIPS?

The Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) Program is a national program which provides support and resources for law enforcement agencies interested in developing or enhancing a volunteer program and for community members who wish to volunteer their time and skills with a community law enforcement agency. Local VIPS programs offer direct volunteer opportunities and conduct their own screening, recruitment, and placement.

VIPS is a partnership between the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and the Bureau of Justice Assistant Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice.

Volunteer Activities

Here are some examples of assignments that citizens may be offered to assist their local law enforcement agency:

Administrative Assistance

Citizen Patrols

Speakers Bureau

Neighborhood Watch

Search and Rescue Activities

Translation

Victim Assistance

Disaster Response

Special Events

Crime Prevention Programs

Explorer Post

Chaplain

Reserve Officer

How Do I Get Involved with VIPS?

If you are interested in serving your Marion County community by volunteering with a law enforcement agency, contact Marion County Emergency Management Community Coordinator, Erik Anderson at (503) 365.3186 or eanderson@co.marion.or.us for details or search the directory on the VIPS Web site www.policevolunteers.org.

There may be requirements based on age, background check and availability.